Irs file an extension

You can also receive an additional 4-month extension of time to file or, a total of six months if you file Form and check the box on line 8 to indicate that you need an additional 4 months to file your return. The additional 4-month period is not an extension of time to pay. More In Help. You'll receive a confirmation number for your records.

Individual Income Tax Return using your personal computer or through a tax professional who uses e-file. File a paper Form Note : Fiscal year taxpayers may file extensions only by filing a paper Form Page Last Reviewed or Updated: Jan Still, it's best to e-file or postmark your individual tax return as early as possible.

If you owe the IRS, penalties and interest start to accrue on any remaining unpaid taxes after the filing deadline. You may also incur a late-payment penalty, which is 0. Another caveat: If you're serving in the military -- in a combat zone or a contingency operation in support of the armed forces -- you may be granted additional time to file , according to the IRS. These companies can make the tax filing process much easier, from reporting your self-employed income to setting up direct deposit and helping with itemized deductions.

This service is available now and can be used if you meet certain criteria and have a relatively simple tax situation. However, if you want to itemize deductions or have a more complex financial situation -- you run a business, have investments or generate rental income -- you'll have to pay for a higher tier of service, which can run a couple hundred dollars.

Still, for most people, even the most deluxe online package is far less expensive than hiring an authorized tax pro. And if you prefer to keep it old-school, the IRS' online tax forms handle some but not all of the calculations for you and still allow you to e-file or print and mail.

Your state tax return deadline is likely the same as the federal return deadline: April Last year, most states extended their deadlines to May 17 to match the federal government's revised deadline. In most states, taxpayers who are granted a federal extension to file should automatically receive an extension to file their state income tax return.

Many states have their own online tax platforms, which are usually free to use. Check out CNET's comparison of tax software and services to see which is best for you. Filing online and earlier usually results in faster processing. The typical turnaround for electronic filers who choose to deposit their refund directly into their bank account ranges from one to three weeks. Additionally, if you choose an e-collect direct deposit, where your tax preparer's fee is deducted from your refund, it may add a few more days to your wait.

And a paper check may take several weeks to arrive. If you file online, there's nothing to print out or mail, but we recommend you save an electronic copy for your records regardless. If you file on paper, you'll need to mail your return to the IRS. The specific mailing address depends on which tax form you use and which state you live in.

Taxpayers needing more time to file their taxes can get an automatic six-month extension from the IRS. Taxpayers should keep a copy of their tax return. Beginning in , taxpayers using a software product for the first time may need their Adjusted Gross Income AGI amount from their prior-year tax return to verify their identity.

Taxpayers can learn more about how to verify their identity and electronically sign tax returns at Validating Your Electronically Filed Tax Return. Subscribe to Tax Tips.

Notice: Historical Content This is an archival or historical document and may not reflect current law, policies or procedures.

More In News. IRS Free File allows taxpayers to prepare and e-file their taxes for free. It can also be used to e-file a free extension to file request.